River cruise
line AmaWaterways has shared updated information on the inaugural sailing
of its first ship in Colombia, AmaMagdalena, set for 2025.
The inaugural sailing of AmaMagdalena has been moved to
March 15, 2025, allowing the company to finalize the essential infrastructure
for this new river cruise destination. This extended timeline will enable the
river cruise line to refine the experience to meet the high standards guests
have come to expect with AmaWaterways.
“This is the first time a major river cruise line is
offering a journey of this nature on the Magdalena River. We’ve encountered
challenges that are simply part of being pioneers,” said Rudi Schreiner,
co-founder and president of AmaWaterways. “Opening a new river to the world is
not easy, but it's exactly these kinds of bold steps that allow us to offer our
guests new experiences.”
Focused on enhancing the luxury
cruising experience along this river as a new destination for river
cruising, the company’s aim is to ensure guests enjoy authentic and enriching
connections to the region's culture and heritage.
“We’re offering our guests the chance to experience Colombia
like never before,” said Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice-president
of AmaWaterways. “Until now, exploring the Magdalena River region with comfort
and ease was complicated, if not impossible. Our cruises are changing that,
offering the seamless experience AmaWaterways is known for, while also
providing exclusive access to culturally significant and often inaccessible
destinations.”
AmaWaterways has been closely collaborating with local
communities and officials to develop the necessary infrastructure along the
Magdalena River. Nine custom-designed excursion boats will allow guests to
explore secluded areas rich in biodiversity, opening up parts of Colombia
rarely seen by travelers.
“Our journey here isn't just about exploration; it's about
forging new paths for our guests while contributing to the growth and
development of the region,” added Karst. “Economic growth, infrastructure
development and community empowerment are at the heart of what we do in
Colombia.”
Guests onboard AmaMagdalena will enjoy tropical fruit
tastings, artisanal chocolate and rum samplings, and Colombian coffee tastings,
all designed to offer deeper connection to Colombian traditions.
The highlight of the culinary experience will be an intimate
restaurant, with just 16 seats, featuring a Colombian chef who will create a
curated journey through the country’s flavors.
Shore excursions are designed to allow guests to interact
with indigenous communities, explore secluded natural wonders and visit areas often
out of reach. Each itinerary is guided by experienced locals who enhance the
cultural experience and provide employment opportunities for communities along
the river.
The launch of AmaMelodia, the company's second ship on the
Magdalena River, remains on schedule for June 2025.
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